Ancient Skills and Wisdom Review - No 13

Magazine Overview

Title: ASWR (Ancient Skills and Wisdom Review)
Issue: No. 13
Volume: 1
Date: 1981
Publisher: Paul Screeton
Country: United Kingdom
ISSN: 6140-9522

This issue of ASWR, edited and published by Paul Screeton, focuses on ancient skills, wisdom, earth mysteries, and ufology. It features a range of articles, book reviews, and a profile on Bob Dylan.

Articles

"Centres of Energy" by Circumlibra

The author recounts an experience at New Grange where, after the electric power was cut, he explored a tumulus by candlelight. This led to a discovery of a 'power' source, which he identifies as an 'etheric energy centre.' He posits that these centres are points where the earth 'breathes,' forming a geometrical pattern across the land. These centres are influenced by celestial bodies, creating lines and surges of power. The article suggests that ancient sites were deliberately placed on these centres, forming a basis for astronomical calculations.

"Shooting Lines" by Brian Moore

This article delves into the field of archaeoastronomy, asserting that ancient man was deeply preoccupied with celestial bodies, as evidenced by megaliths and ancient records. It reviews the journal 'Archaeoastronomy,' highlighting contributions from the Thom family regarding megalithic lunar alignments and L.V. Morrison's critique of these claims. A significant portion discusses David Kelley's controversial conclusion that the Mesoamerican god Questzalcoatl is the planet Mercury, challenging the traditional identification with Venus. The author also touches upon the controversy surrounding Velikovsky's theories and the ongoing debate between archaeological orthodoxy and earth mysteries proponents, particularly in the context of ley hunting.

"Oath and Lovers' Troth Stones" by Paul Screeton

This piece explores the historical and cultural significance of ancient stones used in oaths and agreements. It references examples from Cornwall, Scotland, and the Bible, where stones served as witnesses to covenants and marriage settlements. The article notes how churches incorporated prehistoric stones, such as the blue stone in the chapel of Fladda Chuan Island, into their practices. The author highlights the enduring symbolism of stones imparting qualities of immutability and everlastingness.

Book Reviews

"The Age of Stonehenge" by Colin Burgess

Reviewed by Paul Screeton, this book is praised for offering a refreshing chronological approach to prehistory, moving beyond the traditional 'Three Ages' division. Burgess's work is noted for its detailed examination of the period, including aspects of social fabric, landscape changes, and living standards. The review suggests that the book challenges conventional views and is valuable for its encyclopaedic facts and profusion of diagrams and photographs.

"A Guide to the Megaliths of Europe" by Alastair Service & Jean Bradbury

This review highlights the book's comprehensive guide to megalithic structures across Western Europe, aiming to combat the isolationist view often held by British earth mysteries students. It covers archaeoastronomy, geometry, and the spiritual significance of these sites, suggesting they represent both common knowledge (crops, fertility) and a more esoteric level of 'personal regeneration.' The book is recommended as a valuable resource for researchers and a potential tourist guide.

"The Subterranean Kingdom" by Nigel Pennick

Reviewed by Paul Screeton, this book surveys man-made structures beneath the earth, including tunnels, crypts, and catacombs. Pennick is noted for his extensive research and balanced appraisal of both fact and fantasy. The review mentions specific points of interest, such as the Buxton troglodytes and William Blake's 'dark satanic mills,' and praises Pennick's drawings and bibliography. The reviewer also notes Pennick's divided interest in 'Knockers.'

"Photographs of the Unknown" by Robert Rickard & Richard Kelly

This review describes the book as a collection of images and text presenting cases for the paranormal, including UFOs, psychic surgery, and spontaneous combustion. It is lauded for its visual presentation, with 300 illustrations intended to demonstrate the strangeness of the world. The introduction by Rickard is noted as crisp, and the photography by Kelly is described as a 'treasurehouse of psychic photo-journalism.'

"UFO Abductions" edited by D. Scott Rogo

Reviewed by Paul Screeton, this book is presented as a first-class selection of well-documented abduction accounts, featuring commentaries from respected investigators. It explores the psychological and symbolic aspects of these encounters, suggesting they function as metaphors or three-dimensional dramas materialized from the unconscious. The review endorses Rogo's call for psychologists to study abduction reports, though it questions the emphasis on 'survival' over understanding the underlying causes of repression.

"Dowsing and Archaeology" edited by Tom Graves

This review notes that dowsers are often lively writers who enjoy challenging orthodoxies. The book compiles articles from the Journal of the British Society of Dowsers, presenting a broader picture of dowsing and its connection to archaeology and earth mysteries. The reviewer highlights the book's value for practical dowsers and those seeking guidance, though a minor grumble is made about the inclusion of an outdated map.

"An Architectual Handbook of Glastonbury Abbey" by Frederick Bligh Bond

This review discusses the reissue of a 70-year-old book on Glastonbury Abbey, described as timely given the resurgence of interest in psychic archaeology. The book is praised for its detailed architectural scholarship, historical context, and numerous photographs and diagrams. It notes Bligh Bond's claim of spirit world guidance in his renovation work, while emphasizing the book's value as an exacting study of the building's heritage.

Profile: Bob Dylan: Man, Myth, and Magic

This profile examines Bob Dylan's conversion to Christianity, exploring the "born again" phase of his career. It touches upon his influence as a rock star, poet, and cultural icon. The article discusses the 'magic' shaped by his songs, influenced by various spiritual traditions, including Jewish Qabalism and American Dream mysticism. It also touches on his "Neptunian guardian angel" and his shift towards a more personal and less overtly political stance. The profile contrasts Dylan's perceived mysticism with the 'dogmatic brand of lefter-than-thou "born again" Marxism' of some critics. It references his "Slow Train Coming" and "Saved" albums, noting a shift from irony to credulity. The article also touches on the astrological interpretations of his birth chart by Ledbury and Williams, suggesting that guilt, restlessness, and self-hatred may have contributed to his conversion. The profile concludes by noting Dylan's tendency to swing between extremes, as evidenced by his Gemini astrological sign.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of ASWR consistently explores themes of ancient knowledge, earth mysteries, archaeoastronomy, and ufology. There is a clear interest in unconventional perspectives and a willingness to engage with subjects often dismissed by mainstream academia. The editorial stance appears to favour the investigation of these topics, providing a platform for various authors and reviewers to present their findings and opinions. The publication itself is presented as a review of "Ancient Skills and Wisdom," suggesting a commitment to uncovering and disseminating knowledge outside of conventional channels. The inclusion of book reviews indicates an effort to keep readers informed about current publications in these specialized fields. The magazine also seems to have a critical eye, as seen in the review of Bob Dylan's work and the discussion of controversies in archaeoastronomy.

This issue, number 12, of the "Ancient Skills and Wisdom Review" is a 12-page publication that includes reviews of several books, information on obtaining back issues, and reader requests. The cover mentions a "facsimilie edition" costing £3-95, described as an epitaph to a man and a monument to reverence for Glastonbury.

Book Reviews

"TRUE EXPERIENCES IN PROPHECY" edited by MARTIN EBON (Signet, 95p)

This slim paperback is reviewed as a factual account of prophetic experiences, with many narratives from individuals who have had these experiences themselves, alongside reports from specialist researchers. The review notes that while some may dismiss such stories as coincidences, the editor has personally experienced a prophetic dream. The book is said to cover a variety of experiences and viewpoints, often dealing with harrowing subjects related to prophecy, particularly in contexts of tension, anxiety, war, or stock market dealings. Death messages are highlighted as a common theme. The reviewer forecasts significant interest in the book.

"THE PATHS OF MAGIC" by MARIAN GREEN (M. Green, BCM SCL Quest, London WC1V 6XX, £1)

This book is presented as a way to harness day-dreaming for "real illumination" through "path-following in a truly magical sense." It is suggested as an alternative to potentially dangerous methods like drugs. The book aims to lead the neophyte into deeper levels of consciousness, described as a "safe route towards cosmic forces." The review praises the advice on mind-conditioning, emphasizing that it is not about mind-bending or demonic control but a slow, steady system for self-fulfilment. Practitioners are encouraged to keep a "magical diary" to chart their progress and observe changes in consciousness. The book proposes following the paths of the four elements for a more balanced personality. It is noted that the paths are not necessarily consecutive in the zodiac, which might require patience. The review stresses that no religious beliefs need to be altered to engage with these paths, and participants can "experience and communicate with the 'gods'" as friends and helpers. The core message is to "leave your day-dreams behind and practise the real thing."

"INCREDIBLE" by KEVIN MCFARLAND (Signet/New English Library, £1-10)

This book is described as a modest collection of "fascinating oddities about man and his feats and those of the other kingdoms he shares." While not as comprehensive as the Guinness Book of Records, it offers statistics on remarkable feats of endurance and lists the largest and smallest examples in the plant, animal, fish, and insect worlds. The reviewer, who had expected a "Fortean work," found this book to be "well entrenched in the world of accepted reality" and claims that every observation and historical event is "absolutely verified." The book is noted for its "wealth of expressive line drawings." Minor criticisms include inaccuracies regarding "Straffordshire, England" and the location of Bath, but overall, it is seen as a way to "whiles away a few harmless hours."

Reader Requests and Back Numbers

REQUEST: A reader, P.J. Rasch from San Pedro, CA, U.S.A., is seeking copies of T.C. Lethbridge's books "Merlin's Island" and "This Sceptered Isle."

BACK NUMBERS: Information is provided on obtaining back issues of "Ancient Skills and Wisdom Review" and "Terrestrial Zodiacs Newsletter." Specific issue numbers are listed with their prices (15p and 10p respectively), along with postage costs. Additionally, "Tales of the Hexham Heads" by Paul Screeton and "The Welsh Temple of the Zodiac" by Lewis Edwards are available for purchase.

MAGAZINES: An apology is issued for the lack of magazine reviews in this issue, with a promise to include a full update in the next "A.S.W.R." The delay in this issue's release is attributed to No. 12 going out of print unusually fast, urging readers to subscribe to avoid disappointment.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the exploration of the paranormal, precognition, magic, and unusual or remarkable phenomena. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-mindedness towards subjective experiences and unconventional knowledge, while also valuing factual reporting and verified accounts, as seen in the review of "Incredible." There is a clear interest in providing resources for personal development and exploration of consciousness, as highlighted in the review of "The Paths of Magic." The publication also serves as a platform for connecting readers with shared interests, facilitating requests for rare books and information.